Chuks Okorafor Misses Practice, Trent Scott Works with First Team

PITTSBURGH — Chukwuma Okorafor sat out of Steelers practice on Friday due, and in his place, it was Trent Scott who took the first-team reps, Scott confirmed to Steelers Now.

While Joe Haeg battles back from a concussion as well, he was limited in Steelers practice on Friday. As such, Scott got the first-team reps and the unique opportunity of going up against T.J. Watt.

“It felt good,” Scott said. “You know, it’s the same plays that we’ve been running. So, I was stepping in and keeping it going. I had to give everybody the confidence that I could do it.”

While no reason was given for Okorafor’s absence, Scott got the wrath of Watt on Friday. He has had a few reps against Watt in the past, but this was different. Scott had the opportunity to be the man. The Steelers’ offense certainly had some transition to go through as a result of that.

“I’ve gotten a few reps against him,” Scott said. “But that’s good work, that’s the best work you’re gonna see. That’s why you love having guys like that on your team. Just getting reps against guys like him in practice is valuable.”

Scott still does not know the plan yet for Sunday. Okorafor could still realistically play if everything is OK after his unexplained absence. Still, Scott has to prepare like he could be the starter against the Lions. With Scott or not, the Steelers are expecting quality things out of their offense.

“I really don’t know just yet,” Scott said. “But I have to be prepared and ready for whatever.”

Mike Tomlin did not address Okorafor’s absence during his pregame press conference, giving a general statement instead about leaving open the possibility of all injured players dressing for the game. Okorafor playing or not will come down to a Sunday decision it appears. With it being the Steelers’ full-on dress rehearsal, they would likely want to have all their starting offensive linemen out there if he is available.